Deficit Blues

December 13, 2010

Hosted by John D. Schmidt

Episode Description

ZOOM’D host John Schmidt flies solo with a candid look at the United States Deficit Blues—which, if not addressed, is likely to make us all “black and blue” with impact. John offers a compelling narrative about realities today that includes perspectives of prominent officials (Robert C. Altman, US Deputy Treasury Secretary, and Richard N. Haas, President of the Council on Foreign Relations) as well as viewpoints from past ZOOM’D guests and his own sensibilities. The episode addresses three core elements: 1) the realities of the nation’s current “road to ruin”; 2) consequences of the immense US debt and what can reasonably be anticipated; and 3) the potential pathways ahead at national, local, and personal levels. The show continues to offer a transpartisan viewpoint, not left and not right but rather one that seeks to put definitive realities at the forefront of attention. Join John as he returns ZOOM’D to a big picture reflection of the era of extraordinary change in which we live.

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Whether focused on the economic crisis, energy, climate change, or sustainability at large, ZOOM’D looks at what is really going on. We’ll examine patterns at play, drivers behind them, perspectives of leadership, and the importance of changing the way we pursue the future.

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John D. Schmidt

John D. Schmidt is the founder and CEO of Avastone Consulting, an international consultancy committed to the vitality and sustainability of client organizations and the larger global community. He serves as advisor to global corporations and nongovernmental enterprises, and is a thinker, designer, and practitioner in integral approaches to complex challenges and human development.

John’s expertise offers a rich foundation for ZOOM’D. He is a seasoned consultant with 30 years experience in getting to the heart of matters, discerning what is really going on, and framing appropriate actions. He focuses on deep understanding—listening for surface realities—and deeper truth. He makes sense of complexity, integrating the long view with the here-and-now.

John values the interiority of life and how the developmental nature of mindsets shapes the world we live in—across economic, social, and environmental arenas. He is dedicated to his own growth and contemplative practice, spending 25 days per year in retreat. He is creatively gifted in developing other leaders through deep immersion experiences.

John serves as guest faculty and contributor to learning institutes, universities, and community service organizations. He is a board member of the SHIFT Foundation (which develops young global leaders) and Kosmos Journal (a voice of global awakening). He passionately pursues active enjoyments of life—he is a road cyclist, skier, fly fisher—and lover of the ocean.